My clothes are taking too long to dry
Published on
February 2, 2022 at 9:38:00 AM PST February 2, 2022 at 9:38:00 AM PSTnd, February 2, 2022 at 9:38:00 AM PST
Does your dryer seem to be taking longer to dry the clothes? Below are a few simple tips to help resolve the issue.
1. The dryer is overloaded
An overloaded dryer is one that’s filled to the dryer’s opening. Overloading leaves no room for the hot air to circulate and limits the tumbling action. The passing of hot air in and around the clothing to promote drying is also inhibited.
As a general rule, only fill the dryer 2/3 of the way full to allow for the hot air to circulate. You’ll save money on utility bills and your dryer will perform more efficiently.
2. The dryer’s lint screen needs to be cleaned
All items of clothing shed tiny fibers from the different fabrics with each drying cycle. The airflow circulates the fibers around, trapping them in the lint screen. When the screen becomes full of lint, the circulation of hot air is impeded, forcing the dryer to work harder and clothes take longer to dry.
To maximize the efficiency of the dryer and get the proper airflow needed to dry the clothes, clean the lint screen after each drying cycle. Simply pull out the screen, remove the lint with your hand or a paper towel and replace it.
3. The dryer exhaust duct is clogged
Clogged dryer ducts caused by the buildup of lint can restrict the airflow in the dryer, making clothes take longer to dry. The buildup has the potential to lead to a dryer fire in your home.
Part of your home’s annual maintenance plan should include cleaning the dryer exhaust duct.
Follow these simple steps and dryer fire prevention tips:
- Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet.
- Disconnect the exhaust duct from dryer.
- With a narrow hose vacuum attachment, vacuum out the vent hose from both ends, including outside.
- Remove the exterior vent cover and vacuum lint and debris from the entrance.
- Replace the exterior vent cover and reconnect the exhaust duct to the dryer.
- Plug the dryer back into the wall outlet.
If the exhaust duct appears to be kinked, or it is crushed, it’s time to consider replacing it with DryerFlex® - a safer choice. DryerFlex resists crushing and its smooth interior provides maximum airflow efficiency while preventing lint from building up inside the exhaust duct. Learn more about DryerFlex and see how simple it is to place your order.